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What Is the Purpose of a Frog's Third Eyelid?

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Frogs are among many species that have a third eyelid, or nictitating membrane. The membrane likely evolved to help the frog survive on land and in the water. It lubricates the eyes and provides a level of protection.

Structure

The nictitating membrane, also called a haw, extends from the frog’s lower lid. It is not muscle; it is epithelial tissue similar to the frog’s skin. It contains blood vessels, nerves and the connective tissue collagen.

Protection

The frog can raise the eyelid for extended periods of time to protect the eye from debris or other organisms. This is especially helpful during hibernation, when the frog may not be alert to imminent threats. Frogs pull up the the third eyelid during swimming to protect their eyes under water, much like the goggles you wear in the pool.

Moisture

The nictitating membrane helps an active, non-hibernating frog keep its eyes moist when out of the water on dry land. Without the membrane, a frog’s eyeball could become overly dry and impair his vision. Humans blink to keep moisture in the eye, but a frog needs a constant field of vision to seek out insects or other prey. Depending on the frog species, the nictitating membrane is either transluscent or transparent, so the frog won’t miss a potential meal when he flicks it periodically.

Nictitating Mebranes in Other Animals

Many species of fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals also have third eyelids. Primates and humans do not, with the exception of the aye aye, a type of lemur. Dogs and cats have a third eyelid that usually is engaged, only partially or fully, over the eyelid when the pet is dehydrated, ill or suffering from an eye infection or eye pain. Some puppies are born with a visible haw, which can be removed with surgery. Removing it may mean the dog will need artificial tears his entire life, however. In frogs, engagement of the nictitating membrane is completely normal.